"Considering it's the late stage of the Chinese Super League and Ai Kesen also played in the AFC Champions League, he is not at his best physical condition after fighting in three competitions," the Italian boss defended Ai Kesen at the press conference.

Wu Lei could have found his second five minutes into the second half, only to see his acrobatic overhead kick go wide of the near post following captain Hao Junmin's right wing cross.

Lippi brought on several substitutes to the Chinese lineup, including naturalized player Li Ke after the break, but the hosts could not change the tally after Ai Kesen's goal.

China will next play the Philippines on Oct. 15 in an away match. Syria, who defeated the Philippines 5-2 as guests in their first game, are the main rivals for China in Group A. The Syrians can also earn six points if they beat the Maldives later on Thursday.

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